We had plenty of advanced warning about this most recent snowstorm. Whatever snow total you listen to, we got more this time than we usually get. I thought that I would talk about things that I observed during this snow event, with the hope that each of us will be more prepared the next time. I will have to say that storms like this one make me miss firefighting. Whether it was a winter storm, a hurricane or just a passing line of thunderstorms, it always made for an interesting day in the fire station.
We were fortunate that most of us did not lose power. Those that did had to rely on generators and supplemental heating sources. The question is, were you ready? If you use a woodstove, do you have an ample supply of wood? When was the last time that you had your chimney cleaned? If you use a gas heater of some type, how much gas is in your tank? I do not know if I can attribute the problem that I had to the storm, but I lost power in a completely different way than you might imagine. We lost a leg coming into our house. Instead of 220-240V, we only had half of that coming in, which truly upset the applecart, of our appliances that required the full amount. We are still operating on Dominion’s temporary fix, until the subcontractor comes and puts in a new underground service line, from the pole to our meter.
I received a call on Saturday night, in the height of the storm, stating that a single mother with three children had run out of food. I am thankful that Brock’s Barbecue saved the night for this family, while out delivering food to others having to work in the storm. We were able to take her food the next day, but it was the first time that we risked life and limb to do so. Snowplows had pushed snow, blocking both entrances to our church with a four- to five-foot snow bank. I had to drop my son off on Route 1, so that he could cross the snow bank, grab the groceries, and I picked him back up, in the middle of Route 1. It all worked out well, but this was the epitome of needing bread, milk and eggs.
I saw many that got cabin fever quickly. So much so, that they attempted driving, no matter what type of vehicle that they had. In other words, I saw quite a few people stuck. I even got to push a few cars and helped my son tow one. Four-wheel drive might not be needed often, but I sure am thankful that my truck has it. Keep in mind; four-wheel drive does not work well in icy conditions. I cannot imagine how many people tore their stuff up, by being a bit too impatient to get out during the storm. The majority of people that lost their lives in this storm did so because of motor vehicle accidents.
We were really very fortunate during the storm. I have seen all the snow that I care to see for 2016. However, since none of us have control over the snow, the wind or the rain, we have to make the best of it. When we know that a storm is coming, we must begin to prepare. Whether it means filling the wood bin, filling the gas tank on your vehicle, purchasing more propane, checking your generator or filling your cupboards and refrigerator, we need to be ready. Once the storm hits, we need to hunker down. There is no reason to go out, unless it is an absolute emergency. You also need to put blankets, extra clothes, snacks and drinks in your vehicle, in case you get stranded. Once the storm is over, it is time to dig out. If you are physically able, then you need to think far beyond yourself. Check on your family and your neighbors. Help them did out as well. Bottom line, let’s be ready when the next weather event strikes.
